Discernment: How would you advise someone else?

Discernment: Step 7 of the Ignatian method of discerning one’s state in life—marriage, religious life, the single life and/or priesthood— or making any other decision is to imagine a person in precisely the same position as you. She seeks your opinion before making her final decision. You study her reflections, the advantages and disadvantages she’s identified, and say to her: “It is quite clear (for such and such reasons) that God is calling you to_________________.” Then do the same for yourself as for this person who sought your guidance.

Source: Discernment of Spirits by Warren Sazama, SJ, National Religious Vocation Conference, Chicago, IL 60615.